Best Tattoo Cover Ups with Tatt2Away®
Contemplating tattoo cover ups hide tributes to an ex, or an undesirable piece of ink? Our all-inclusive guide will assist you in navigating the journey to tattoo removal, and help you to make the best decision for your cover up tattoo. Or as we like to call them, replacement tattoos! With Tatt2Away® we create the ideal palette for whatever tattoo you want in your old ink’s place.
You’ve already accomplished the most demanding step: determining that it’s time to conceal your old tattoo. It might symbolize a bygone era or choice you’d prefer to move on from, a disappointing result by a former tattoo artist, or simply a craving for a new and novel piece of art. Whatever the motivation, you’re set for a change.
This choice, however, raises particular questions: Where is the best place to get a cover up tattoo? How expensive will a tattoo cover up be? Are all tattoo professionals skilled in cover ups? Can your particular tattoo be effectively covered up? Does my old tattoo require removal first? Revise or Replace your tattoo with Tatt2Revise®. The process of understanding cover up tattoos can be intimidating.
This guide will offer valuable information on:
Choose Tatt2Revise®
Looking to Revise or Replace Your Tattoo?
Tatt2Revise® is the process of selectively removing sections of the existing tattoo, entirely or in parts, so that it doesn’t restrict your new tattoo coverup. A typical coverup fully incorporates the previous ink into the new design and requires going bigger, and darker, and tricking the eye through color and weighted line work. This limits coverup options – Tatt2Revise® removes those limits and makes room for incredible tattoo cover ups, revisions or replacements.
Tatt2Revise® with Tatt2Away® targets the ink to be removed, and eliminates it in one treatment – it is the safer, faster, and more precise replacement or revision option.
Defining a Tattoo Cover Up
A cover up tattoo is a fresh design etched over a pre-existing tattoo, either entirely hiding the old tattoo or integrating it into the new piece. Procedurally, you’ll be getting one tattoo layered over another.
Individuals Opt for Cover Up Tattoos for Various Reasons, Such As:
- The initial tattoo was not well-executed
- The tattoo symbolizes a challenging period in someone’s life or doesn’t currently align with that person’s life
- The tattoo has faded or appears outdated
- They recognize that the tattoo is offensive
- They wish to integrate the tattoo into a new design
The motivations for desiring a cover up are as diverse as the individuals seeking them. Naturally, the success of a replacement tattoo is contingent on the initial tattoo and the chosen cover up design. Older, faded tattoos in light colors like blues and greens are much simpler to cover than a brand-new, all-black tattoo. However, with effective removal methods that work on all color, like Tatt2Away, receiving a replacement tattoo becomes more possible.
Before settling on the most suitable method to eliminate your undesired tattoo, it’s crucial to comprehend your alternatives and the probability of a tattoo cover up working for your specific piece.
The Tatt2Revise® Process
Makes it possible to cover a dark tattoo, with a lighter, detailed piece by selectively removing the old artwork.
This creates unprecedented freedom in your replacement design opportunities. The full length of treatment is usually not needed before they can create a beautiful new piece of art. Often, one or two sessions are enough to make room for the new tattoo.
The overall Tatt2Revise® process enables you to not only remove exactly what you didn’t want but to not compromise in getting exactly the tattoo cover up, tattoo replacement or revision you want.
Tattoo Removals vs. Tattoo Cover Ups
As you begin exploring ways to part with a tattoo that no longer represents you, you will have two primary options to choose from: a cover up or a removal. The most fitting choice depends on your skin type, your skin tone, the characteristics of the original tattoo, as well as any objectives for the final outcome. It’s vital to understand all the aspects involved in either option before making a decision.
1. Removing Your Tattoo Ink
Tatt2Away®s Tatt2Revise® is the next evolution in tattoo cover ups, or as we like to call them, replacements. The Tatt2Away® process gives you the flexibility to fix, correct, or update what’s already there, even if you already have a cover up tattoo. It opens up your world to new possibilities with the tattoo you’ve fallen out of love with. No longer does the old ink have to dictate the new art.
Tatt2Revise® is the process of selectively removing sections of the existing tattoo, entirely or in parts, so that it doesn’t restrict your new tattoo cover up. It’s just what we like to call a partial removal! A typical cover up fully incorporates the previous ink into the new design and requires going bigger, darker, and tricking the eye through color and weighted line work. This limits cover up options – Tatt2Revise® removes those limits and makes room for incredible tattoo revisions or replacements. Tatt2Away® also works on all color ink, while a laser cannot remove certain pigment tattoo ink. So, no matter the color of the design you want to remove, Tatt2Away® is effective!
Tatt2Revise® with Tatt2Away® targets the ink to be removed, and eliminates it in one treatment – it is the safer, faster, and more precise replacement or revision option.
2. Concealing Tattoos with a Tattoo Cover Up
Cover up tattoos involve inking a brand-new design over the original, undesired tattoo. This technique employs parts of the initial design to develop something entirely distinct.
A cover up tattoo is an ideal option for those who are comfortable having a tattoo in the exact same place but desire a new design or wish to conceal the original. For instance, an individual who received a stick-and-poke tattoo on the foot from a friend in grade school may decide it’s time for a more professional piece. They could collaborate with a tattoo artist to create an exquisite new floral pattern that integrates the black ink of the original tattoo while entirely obscuring it.
A tattoo cover up might also be an excellent choice for someone looking to add a fresh piece to their body without the need for multiple tattoo removal sessions. For example, someone with a flower sleeve tattoo might envision a grand cosmic design instead. By working with a tattoo artist, they could use dark ink and an expansive design to hide the initial tattoo beneath a new work of art.
Keep in mind that Tatt2Revise® creates optimal results when combined with cover up tattoos. In many instances, undergoing Tatt2Revise® tattoo removal sessions to break up the original tattoo yields better outcomes for covering it up and provides your tattoo artist with more creative possibilities.
Temporary Methods to Conceal Your Tattoos
Alternative temporary solutions for hiding your tattoos involve using makeup or accessories (such as a bracelet to cover an undesired wrist tattoo). Regrettably, these methods provide short-term results and can be time-consuming to apply. Moreover, they are not foolproof — makeup can be easily smudged or washed away.
Ultimately, the most reliable way to eliminate an unwanted tattoo is through tattoo removal or a tattoo cover up.
The Process of a Cover Up Tattoo
If you’ve settled on a tattoo cover up as your preferred choice, you’re likely wondering, “How does this actually work?“
The concept behind a tattoo cover up is related to the layers of your skin. The ink from your previous tattoo resides in the dermis, the layer beneath the top layers of skin (the epidermis). The new ink color will also be deposited into the dermis, where it will blend with the old ink.
Due to this blending, a tattoo artist must take into account both the old and new colors when selecting ink for your cover up. For instance, tattooing over an old blue tattoo with red ink will result in a purple shade.
It’s also crucial to note that darker inks will prevail. An old black ink tattoo “covered” with hot pink will likely remain predominantly black.
The Cover Up Journey Consists of Several Steps:
- Select a Design: You probably have numerous tattoo cover up ideas already. Determine the kind of tattoo you’d like to use to hide the old design, considering aspects such as size, color, design elements, and more.
- Consult a Specialist: Collaborate with a cover up specialist to ascertain if any tattoo removal sessions are needed to fade your initial tattoo.
- Pick an Artist: After healing from your removal sessions or if none are required, meet with your cover up tattoo artist to discuss your design concepts.
- Embrace Your New Artwork: Get your cover up tattoo! It’s a fantastic feeling to witness your cover up tattoo ideas come to fruition.
If you’re uncertain about how to choose a cover up tattoo, don’t worry — continue reading for more ideas on the type of designs that will best suit you.
Aspects That Affect Covering Up a Tattoo
When considering a tattoo cover up, various factors will influence your decision. Keep these in mind when deciding on the right cover up tattoo for you.
Size
The dimensions of your current tattoo will dictate the minimum size for your new tattoo. The new design must be large enough to conceal the old one. For instance, if you want to cover up a full sleeve, the new tattoo will likely need to be a full sleeve as well. A palm-sized skull and crossbones on your back would require a cover up of the same size or larger.
Color
Lighter, faded tattoos are generally easier to cover than darker ones. The cover up artist will need to consider the existing colors and determine if they will be visible through the new tattoo. Furthermore, having multiple colors in the original piece can make covering it more challenging. For example, it would be difficult to cover a colorful stained-glass window with a light blue sky without first undergoing extensive tattoo removal sessions to fade the original.
Age
Older tattoos often have faded ink and blurred lines, which makes them easier to cover up. An aged, large, colored tattoo on your ankle might be simpler to conceal than a smaller black tattoo you got last year. The older tattoo has had more time to settle, allowing the new ink to penetrate your skin more effectively.
Design
The design of your previous tattoo plays a role in its cover up potential. Intricate designs can be harder to cover than simpler ones. A cover up tattoo might need to be equally detailed. For example, it would be challenging to cover a portrait of your pet with a simple tribal line tattoo. On the other hand, incorporating a simple line tattoo into a new, detailed portrait is much more feasible!
Artist
The experience level and specialization of your tattoo artist are crucial factors in deciding who to work with for your cover up. Even if you find an artist whose work you admire, it’s vital to collaborate with someone who has specific experience in tattoo cover ups.
For instance, you may discover an artist who creates stunning full-color floral designs and want to work with them to cover up an ex-partner’s name on your foot. However, if the artist lacks experience in cover up tattoos, they might not know how to choose the appropriate ink composition and color to effectively hide an old tattoo. The result could be a beautiful garden with a name still visible through it!
Choosing the Perfect Cover Up Tattoo
Now that you’re familiar with the process and factors involved in selecting a tattoo cover up, it’s time to have some fun and create your dream design! Here are some tips for choosing the ideal cover up tattoo.
– Align the New Design with the Old Ink
Cover up tattoos work best when the new design is closely related to the old ink. For instance, if you have a large Celtic knot on your foot, opting for a cover up design with a similar Celtic theme would be more manageable than trying a realistic piece.
– Think About Expanding the Current Design
You might be able to enhance your existing design by adding elements, intensifying colors, or enlarging the original tattoo. If you have a single feather tattoo, for example, consider transforming it into an exquisite peacock cover up piece.
– Be Ready for a Larger Tattoo
Your cover up tattoo must be at least the same size as the original and possibly even larger. Keep this in mind when determining your new design and deciding between a replacement or removal.
– Anticipate More Maintenance for Cover Up Tattoos
Cover up tattoos might require up to three sessions to ensure the ink fully saturates the original design. These tattoos can also fade more quickly than the original ones, so practicing proper tattoo care, such as moisturizing and sun protection, is crucial.
– Seek Out Skilled Cover Up Tattoo Artists
When starting your cover up journey, it’s essential to work with an artist experienced in cover up tattoos. These artists can help you choose a design that effectively hides your old tattoo and provide style and color recommendations. When searching for tattoo artists, don’t hesitate to request cover up examples from their portfolios. Prepare questions in advance to ensure they’re the right fit.
Possible questions include:
- What is your approach to covering old tattoos?
- How many cover ups have you done?
- What should I keep in mind while healing from a cover up tattoo?
- Do you have any before-and-after photos of cover ups you’ve done?
– Consider Tatt2Away® Tattoo Removal
If your tattoo is dark, heavily colored, or new, you might need multiple sessions to remove the correct amount of ink for your replacement tattoos. Even lighter or older tattoos can benefit from removal sessions, providing a more faded canvas for the cover up. Keep this in mind when planning your timeline and budget for the tattoo cover up process. Laser tattoo removal does not work on all color inks, and has other limitations, while the Tatt2Away® system works on any color or pigment ink. This is another big factor in deciding what process to use!
– Maintain Realistic Expectations
While it’s exciting to envision your dream tattoo, ensure you set realistic expectations to avoid disappointment later. Covering an intricate, dark portrait with a clear blue sky, for example, might not be possible without multiple tattoo removal sessions.
Working with experts early in the process allows you to communicate your desired outcome, and they can guide you on the most effective path to achieve it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cover Up Tattoos
We hope this guide has answered your questions about selecting a cover up tattoo and provided you with the necessary steps to move forward. Here are some additional frequently asked questions.
Is It Possible to Cover a Black Tattoo with Color?
Covering a black tattoo with a color other than black can be challenging. Dark shades like navy blue or brown might be effective, but lighter colors won’t successfully cover an original black tattoo. If you’re interested in incorporating vibrant colors into your new tattoo, consider Tatt2Revise tattoo removal to fade your original black design.
When Can a Tattoo Be Covered Up?
If you have a new tattoo that didn’t turn out as you imagined, you might be eager to get it covered up immediately. However, it’s essential to wait until your tattoo has fully healed before pursuing a cover up design. New tattoos are considered open wounds, and while the top layer of skin may heal within two to three weeks, it can take months for the tattoo to heal completely at all skin depths.
Consult an experienced cover up tattoo artist to determine whether your newer tattoo is healed enough for a cover up.
How Should You Care for a Cover Up Tattoo?
Caring for a cover up tattoo is similar to caring for tattoos that are new.
Key care elements include:
- Keep the new tattoo covered with a bandage for the duration recommended by your tattoo artist.
- Clean your new tattoo with clean water and fragrance-free soap.
- Apply moisturizer as directed by your tattoo artist.
- Protect your tattoo from direct sunlight.
- Refrain from scratching or picking at your cover up tattoo.
Which Colors Can Be Used for a Tattoo Cover Up?
Tattoo artists can use various colors to cover up tattoos, depending on the existing tattoo’s color and the desired final design. They can use darker shades of the same color or mix different colored inks with the existing ink to create a new color. For example, a blue ink combined with a red tattoo will produce purple.
Although many colors can be used, black ink often works best for cover up tattoos. Discuss your color preferences and what is achievable given your original tattoo’s colors and designs with your tattoo artist.
What Is the Cost of a Cover Up Tattoo?
The cost of a cover up tattoo varies based on several factors, including the desired size and color, the level of detail, and the artist’s experience. It’s important to note that a cover up tattoo may be more expensive than a similar design on unmarked skin because the artist must carefully plan the design and ink type based on the original tattoo, which requires additional labor and time.
Does a Cover Up Tattoo Hurt More than a Regular Tattoo?
The pain level during a cover up tattoo session can be similar to that of getting a new tattoo. However, individual pain tolerance varies, and some people may find the process of covering up an existing tattoo slightly more uncomfortable due to the additional layers of ink and the possible presence of scar tissue.
How Long Does a Cover Up Tattoo Take?
The time required for a cover up tattoo depends on the complexity of the design, the size of the original tattoo, and the skill of the tattoo artist. A cover up tattoo may take longer than a new tattoo on unmarked skin due to the additional planning and strategy involved in covering up the original design effectively.
Can a Cover Up Tattoo Be Removed?
Yes, a cover up tattoo can be removed using Tatt2Revise or other tattoo removal methods. However, the process may be more complicated and require additional sessions compared to removing a single-layer tattoo. It’s essential to consult with a tattoo removal specialist to discuss the specifics of your situation.
Can I Cover Up a Tattoo With White Ink?
Covering up a tattoo with white ink is generally not effective, as white ink does not have enough pigment to effectively hide the original design. Darker colors, such as black or navy, are typically more successful for cover up tattoos. Consult with an experienced cover up tattoo artist to discuss the best color options for your specific situation.
How Long Should I Wait Before Getting a Cover Up Tattoo on a New Tattoo?
It’s essential to wait until your new tattoo is fully healed before considering a cover up. This healing process typically takes about 2-3 months, but it can vary depending on factors such as size, location, and your body’s healing rate. Consult with a cover up tattoo artist to determine the appropriate waiting period for your specific situation.
Is it Possible to Do a Partial Cover Up of a Tattoo?
Yes, it is possible to do a partial cover up of a tattoo. In this case, the new design may incorporate specific elements of the original tattoo while covering up the unwanted parts. An experienced cover up tattoo artist can help you determine the best approach for your specific situation.
How Can I Ensure My Cover Up Tattoo is Successful?
To ensure your cover up tattoo is successful, work with an experienced cover up tattoo artist who understands the intricacies of covering up existing tattoos. You should choose a tattoo removal service that removes the portions of the tattoo as directed by the tattoo artist, and consider if the color ink can be removed. They can help guide you in choosing the right design, size, and colors to effectively conceal your original tattoo. Additionally, follow the recommended aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.
Can I cover up a tattoo with a lighter color?
Covering up a tattoo with a lighter color is generally not effective, as the original tattoo’s ink will likely show through the lighter color. Darker colors, such as black, navy, or dark brown, are usually more successful in covering up unwanted tattoos. Consult with a skilled cover up tattoo artist to discuss the best color options for your specific situation.
Will a cover up tattoo look like a brand new tattoo?
A well-executed cover up tattoo can look like a brand new tattoo, effectively hiding the original design. However, the success of a cover up tattoo depends on factors such as the original tattoo’s size, color, and design, as well as the skill of the cover up tattoo artist. It’s important to have realistic expectations and work closely with your tattoo artist to achieve the desired outcome.
Can I cover up a raised or scarred tattoo?
Covering up a raised or scarred tattoo is possible, but it may be more challenging due to the irregular skin texture. An experienced cover up tattoo artist can help determine the best approach and design to effectively conceal a raised or scarred tattoo. In some cases, they may recommend treating the scarred area with dermatology treatments before attempting a cover up tattoo.
How long does it take for a cover up tattoo to heal?
The healing time for a cover up tattoo is similar to that of a new tattoo, usually taking about 2-4 weeks for the outer layers of skin to heal and 2-3 months for the deeper layers. Follow your tattoo artist’s aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications.
Can I get a cover up tattoo if I have an allergic reaction to the original tattoo?
If you have an allergic reaction to the ink in your original tattoo, it’s essential to consult with a cover up tattoo artist and a medical professional before considering a cover up tattoo. They can help determine the cause of the allergic reaction and whether it is safe to proceed with a cover up using different ink or other alternatives.
Do cover up tattoos hurt more than regular tattoos?
Cover up tattoos may feel slightly more painful than a regular tattoo, as the tattoo artist needs to go over the same area where your skin has already been inked. However, pain levels vary from person to person, and your experience will depend on factors such as your pain tolerance and the location of the tattoo.
How many sessions will it take to complete a cover up tattoo?
The number of sessions required for a cover up tattoo will vary depending on factors such as the size, color, and design of the original tattoo, as well as the complexity of the cover up design. Some cover ups can be completed in a single session, while others may require multiple sessions. Your cover up tattoo artist will be able to give you an estimate of the number of sessions needed for your specific situation.
Can I cover up a tattoo that is still healing?
It’s important to wait until your tattoo is fully healed before considering a cover up. Covering up a tattoo that is still healing can increase the risk of infection and other complications. Generally, you should wait at least 2-3 months after getting a tattoo before considering a cover up.
Are there any risks associated with cover up tattoos?
Cover up tattoos carry similar risks to regular tattoos, including infection, allergic reactions, and scarring. However, working with an experienced cover up tattoo artist and following proper aftercare instructions can help minimize these risks. If you have any concerns, consult with your tattoo artist and a medical professional before proceeding with a cover up tattoo.
How can I ensure my cover up tattoo looks natural and seamless?
To ensure your cover up tattoo looks natural and seamless, first choose a removal service that is effective. Be sure the portions of the tattoo that need to be removed can be, and that there are no preventions such as color ink and laser. Next, work with an experienced cover up tattoo artist who has a strong portfolio of successful cover up work. They can help guide you in choosing the right design, size, and colors to effectively blend with and conceal your original tattoo. Following proper aftercare instructions will also help ensure the best results.
Can I cover up a tattoo that has already been covered up before?
Yes, it is possible to cover up a tattoo that has already been covered up before. However, it can be more challenging due to the multiple layers of ink and the complexity of the design. An experienced cover up tattoo artist can help you determine the best approach for your specific situation and create a new design that effectively conceals the previous tattoos.
Book Your Consultation Today with Tatt2Away®
Choosing the right cover up tattoo can be a transformative experience, allowing you to move past any regrets or dissatisfaction with your current ink. To ensure the best outcome, it’s essential to consult with an experienced tattoo removal and cover up service like Tatt2Away®. Tatt2Revise® is a procedure dedicated to cover up or replacement tattoos.
Tatt2Away® offers a unique, non-laser tattoo removal method designed to help prepare your skin for an optimal cover up, while providing expert guidance on design and color options for your new tattoo. By working with the skilled professionals at Tatt2Away®, you can achieve the perfect balance between tattoo removal and cover up, ultimately resulting in a beautiful and meaningful piece of body art that you’ll be proud to wear for years to come. Contact our team today and inquire about our tattoo cover up, revision, and complete removal packages. You can find one of our Tatt2Away® locations in a city near you.